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IN BRIEF
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In Melle, the collective P’ose holidays has been working for several years to remind that holidays are not a luxury, but a fundamental need for everyone. By bringing together various local structures and actors, the collective is committed to facilitating holiday departures for those often the most distant from these moments of respite. The gathering, which took place on November 22, 2024, highlighted the missions and objectives of the collective, as well as the crucial importance of holidays for the well-being of individuals and families.
A clear objective: accessible holidays for all #
The collective P’ose holidays was formed within the Mellois and Saint-Maixentais territories about ten years ago. As Camille Guerin from the Ligue de l’enseignement explains, “It is a gathering of several structures from both territories. The goal is to offer holidays to those who are the furthest away from them”. This project includes a wide range of beneficiaries, from children and families to isolated individuals or those with disabilities, thus advocating for the right to holidays for all.
A collaborative and mutual approach #
The development of the collective is based on drafting a strong advocacy that emphasizes the importance of uniting the efforts of the different engaged entities. Indeed, the diversity of members, ranging from the MSA (Mutualité Sociale Agricole) to the Caf (Caisse d’Allocations Familiales), including associations and funders, allows for better synergy. Sandrine Ferru from the MSA specifies that “We want to promote all the existing devices”, highlighting the importance of networking local actors to better meet the needs of beneficiaries.
Holidays are not optional, but necessary #
Within the collective, the vision of holidays is redefined as essential and not accessory. According to Kim Delagarde, director of La Bêta-Pi, “Holidays are not a luxury. They do not come after solving all the daily problems. Everyone has the right to a break and a holiday”. This militant positioning invites a rethink of the place of holidays in society and encourages everyone to recognize the value of these moments of rest.
Identifying and overcoming obstacles to holiday departures #
During the meeting, partners discussed the various barriers that can prevent children from going on holidays. “We discussed the parents’ reluctance to let their children go on vacation. There are financial barriers that can be lifted, but that’s probably not enough”, notes Sandrine Ferru. This highlights the need to expand dialogue around the challenges families face in organizing holidays.
À lire exploration of the breathtaking landscapes of Conflent in the Eastern Pyrenees
A call to action for well-being #
The reflections shared during this meeting aim to convince not only elected officials and social actors but also to raise awareness among potential beneficiaries about the importance of taking time for oneself or with family. “Going away for just one day can already be very beneficial”, reminds Sandrine Ferru, emphasizing that even small getaways can have a positive impact on everyone’s mental and physical health.
A service to the community #
For all individuals interested in the opportunities offered by the collective, it is recommended to contact the sociocultural center of Mellois. This center is actively committed to supporting families in building their holiday projects, whether modest or ambitious. Thanks to the initiatives of P’ose holidays, doors are opening for moments of relaxation that were previously difficult to access for some. Holidays ultimately thus become a right as fundamental as essential for individual and family development.
